i9 office development is set to start emerging from the ground next month.

A 36-metre tower crane has been erected for the installation of the pre-cast concrete frame and brick-faced precast external walls, which are being manufactured off site.

Groundworks are nearing completion and we will begin laying the ground-floor slabs this month.

The finished building will provide up to 52,000 sq ft of Grade A office space, has potential for 5,600 sq ft of leisure space for restaurants, and is planned for completion in 2021.

City of Wolverhampton Council and property developer Ion selected Glenn Howells Architects’ design for i9.

Council leader, Cllr Ian Brookfield, said: “The erection of the tower crane on site marks a major milestone in this impressive city centre scheme.

“i9 will help us stimulate economic growth in the city, bringing hundreds of jobs and much-needed opportunities for local people in our recovery from the current crisis.

“As well as helping get Wolverhampton back on its feet, it is another step towards our aspirations of creating a commercial district in this area of the city centre.”

Ion managing director, Steve Parry, added: “We’re delighted to reach a further milestone in delivering i9. It is set to be an iconic building that is sympathetic within its environment, whilst still demonstrating City of Wolverhampton’s ambition to compete as a prime city centre office location.

“The development of this quality of building will broaden the appeal of City of Wolverhampton to a range of occupiers who are seeking the highest standards. The proximity of transportation hubs and availability of cafés and restaurants on the ground floor will reinforce this part of the Interchange as a place to spend leisure time.”

We are targetting a BREEAM Excellent rating to guarantee the long-term sustainability of the building and lower any potential impact on the surrounding environment.

GRAHAM Regional Director, Ronan Hughes, said: “Wolverhampton is undergoing a period of regeneration that is set to transform the city and attract further investment and jobs to the area. We are delighted with the progress being made on the i9 site and are proud to be delivering a significant, sustainable commercial building that will provide the benefits of a prime location and high spec office facilities.”